Argentina Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Reissued with updates to crime information. Exercise normal precautions in Argentina. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Exercise increased caution in: City of Rosario (Santa Fe province) due to crime . Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Argentina. If you decide to travel to Argentina:  Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency...

🌍 Active Disasters (GDACS)

✈️ Planning a Trip?

Despite advisories, many travelers visit Argentina safely every year. Check our guides for practical tips:

🚨 Emergency Numbers

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Buenos Aires has excellent private hospitals such as Hospital Alemán and Hospital Italiano with English-speaking staff. Outside major cities, healthcare quality drops significantly and facilities may be basic.

Insurance: Travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended. While public care is free, private facilities are preferable and insurance ensures access to the best hospitals.

💊 Medication Restrictions

Argentina follows international drug conventions but enforcement at customs is relatively relaxed for personal-use medications. Carry all medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter — Spanish translation is helpful. Controlled substances (stimulants, benzodiazepines, codeine) should be declared at customs with supporting prescriptions and only in quantities needed for your stay.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Prescription required. Carry original packaging and a doctor's letter. Spanish translation recommended.
• Adderall / amphetamines — RESTRICTED: Controlled substance. Requires valid prescription. Carry doctor's letter and original packaging. Spanish translation recommended.
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: Cannabis is illegal for recreational use. Medical cannabis was legalized in 2017 but only for residents with specific authorizations. Do not bring CBD products.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Controlled substance. Allowed with valid prescription and doctor's letter.
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Prescription required. Carry original packaging and doctor's letter.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: 10% at restaurants is customary. Round up for taxis. Tip hotel porters AR$500-1000. Propina (tip) jars common at cafes.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Calling Falkland Islands 'Falklands' (use 'Malvinas')
• Comparing Argentina to other Latin American countries negatively
• Rushing meals — dinner starts at 9-10 PM and is a social event
• Pouring wine backhanded (considered rude)
• Being punctual to social events (arrive 30-60 min late)

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in Argentina: